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Top Tents

By Arielle Winnik

Published Summer 2008

Stamford Tent & Event Services
This tri-state area one-stop shop has everything from century to structure tents (the difference is that the former has fewer internal polls and has peaks), black-and-white checked or custom-painted dance floors, carpet or Astroturf flooring, climate-control equipment, lighting, and logistical services. Stamford’s in-tent heating system is so reliable that one couple had their wedding atop a snow-covered field (from $5,000). 203-324-6222; stamfordtent.com.

Sperry Tents
Founded by a maker of nautical sails, Sperry’s tents are emblematic of seaside New England lawn parties (see their super preppy navy-and-white “Blue Star” tent with wood poles and pennant). Get classic white with open or clear-plastic sides, or a custom-made tent in any hue you want (from $2,000, including basic lighting and a dance floor). 888-825-7542; sperrytents.com.

Starr Tents
The company specializes in building sturdy foundations on tricky terrain—from beach bluffs to pools (they’ll build bridges over the latter). For an amazing-looking indoor/outdoor option, ask for decking—a porch that extends from outside the tent—or get a tent with split-level dining and dancing areas. It’s pretty astounding what they can build from the ground up (from $10,000). 914-667-2001; starrtent.com.

P.J. McBride, Inc.
Unlike other companies, McBride sells off his stock every two years, so his tents are always impeccable and technically up-to-date. For one wedding, he created a gradation of three tents (one for ceremony, one for dinner, one for dancing) that looked spectacular (from $2,400). 631-643-2848; pjmcbride.com.

Nassau Tents
Its vast inventory includes clear-top tents, canopies, push poles, wall lighting, heaters, and much more. Flexible and up for a challenge, they’ve actually set up a tent just steps from the seashore (from $1,000). 631-491-5507; nassautent.com.